Like so many Americans, Senator Begich is proud to come from immigrant roots. Alaska’s largest city, Anchorage, has more than 90 different languages spoken in its schools. The rich cultural contributions immigrants bring to Alaska and America are something to be appreciated. America is a nation of immigrants and with that there’s a responsibility of uniting families, while ensuring that children can grow up without fear of attack.

America’s immigrants have helped make our country great, but the nation must address the complicated issue of illegal immigration. The United States needs immigration legislation which can realistically solve the problem, while being fair to taxpayers and tough on enforcement. Senator Begich believes we must have an efficient system in place for those who come to our country legally. The right step is a legal path to citizenship, including an application process that will require several steps such as making sure all debts are paid.

Enforcement of immigration laws is down 25 percent over the past decade. The United States needs to immediately strengthen border enforcement to prevent as much illegal immigration as possible. Enforcement must apply to employers who illegally and knowingly hire illegal immigrants.

Comprehensive immigration reform must be fair to taxpayers by eliminating the under-the-table economy which allows people to evade taxes. Illegal immigrants should be required to pay current taxes, along with any unpaid back taxes. Comprehensive immigration reform also will force businesses who hire illegal immigrants to pay the wage taxes they have been avoiding. Ultimately, fixing a broken immigration system will guarantee fairness for Americans by having everyone pay their share. Reform will shut down the shadow economy and boost America’s economy by having more workers who are paying taxes and contributing to the economy and the community.

For the 111th Congress, Senator Begichwas pleased to be seated on the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs, with jurisdiction over most aspects of Homeland Security, terrorism prevention, government oversight and contracting oversight. Of particular interest to Alaska is the committee’s jurisdiction including Alaska Native Corporation 8(a) contracting and improving national security.

• Jurisdiction over post offices;
• Census;
• Federal civil service;
• Government oversight/Federal financial management;
• Jurisdiction over most of DHS;
• Shared jurisdiction Coast Guard, TSA, and Customs and Border Patrol/Immigration and Custom Enforcement;
• Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations (essentially plenary jurisdiction to investigate anything involving the federal government);
• Police/Firefighter funding

Senator Begich will continue to research potential legislation to address the complicated issue of immigration reform. His offices will also continue, on a daily basis, to assist constituents with immigration, visa and passport issues.